Life Enrichment Assistant-Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Center

Job Description

Job Title: Life Enrichment Assistant

Company: Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Center

Location: Hudsonville, MI

Pay: $14 – 16 per hour

AI Pay Analysis: The hourly rate of $14 to $16 for a “Life Enrichment Assistant” in Hudsonville, MI, falls slightly below the national average for similar positions, which typically range from $15 to $22 per hour depending on factors such as experience, education, and the specific employer. This role generally involves supporting residents in various activities and enhancing their quality of life, often in senior living facilities or community centers. While the offered rate may be competitive for entry-level positions or in less expensive regions, it might not attract more experienced candidates who expect compensation aligned with the higher end of industry standards, particularly in a market with increasing living costs and a growing emphasis on quality senior care.

Job description:

Full-time position from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Hourly Pay Range: $14 – $16

Purpose of This Position
The Life Enrichment Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the life enrichment program within the Terrace and Courtyard areas. Operating under the guidance of the Life Enrichment Coordinator, the Assistant will independently facilitate activities tailored for residents. The availability of the Life Enrichment Assistant position is contingent upon occupancy levels and requires approval from the Controller for Heritage Property Management.

Qualifications
Candidates for the Life Enrichment Assistant role are selected based on their positive and respectful attitude towards individuals with dementia, maturity, and ability to effectively manage the demands of the position. Required qualifications include education and experience relevant to working with frail elderly individuals, particularly those with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Coursework in gerontology is preferred. The ideal candidate will demonstrate compassion for serving the frail elderly population, possess innovative and creative problem-solving skills, and be capable of reading, writing, and following directions. Candidates must also be able to pass state-mandated criminal background screenings and random drug testing.

Essential Functions

• Possess familiarity with GEMS: Positive Approach to Dementia Care.
• Create GEM boxes to promote active engagement among residents with dementia.
• Conduct direct interactions with residents in individual, small group, and large group settings within the Terrace and Courtyard. Develop and lead various activities, including group exercises, music sessions, reminiscence activities, crafts, manicures, and engagement in household tasks such as folding laundry, setting tables, washing dishes, sorting silverware, and dusting.
• Collaborate with the Life Enrichment Coordinator in planning special events, including musical programs, outings, and family gatherings.
• Support Resident Service Assistants in implementing GEMS concepts.
• Prepare materials for activities, including craft projects, games, puzzles, and manicures, with attention to varied color selections for nail polish.
• Ensure compliance with all Resident Rights, including maintaining confidentiality.
• Undertake additional duties as assigned or necessary to meet the goals and objectives of the living center.

General Responsibilities

• Serve as a goodwill ambassador for the living center.
• Adhere to Life Safety policies and participate in periodic drills.
• Engage in training opportunities to enhance skills.
• Report safety and health hazards to the Maintenance Supervisor.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues on the same and across shifts.
• Arrive to work as scheduled.
• Treat all residents with dignity and respect.
• Observe residents for changes in condition (physical, emotional, cognitive, or behavioral) and communicate any alterations to the Shift Supervisor.
• Follow infection control protocols.
• Adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Employee Handbook, including the code of conduct.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Capable of lifting up to 20 pounds.
• Able to stand, bend, twist, turn, stoop, squat, sit, kneel, pull, push, and walk long distances on hard surfaces for extended periods.
• Comfortable performing physically repetitive tasks and tolerating exposure to varying temperatures.
• Capable of working with strong scents and chemicals (e.g., for manicures).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with residents, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Ability to comprehend written and verbal instructions in English.
• Maintain emotional stability to appropriately address resident care needs, including chronic illnesses, challenging behaviors, dementia-related issues, and the passing of residents.

What We Offer:

• No wage cap.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• Engaging staff calendar and activities.
• Perfect attendance bonus.
• Flexible spending account (WageWorks account).
• Optional health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Potential pay raise after 90 days of employment (dependent on performance).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) based on hours worked and years of service.
• 401K plan with company match of up to 50% on contributions up to 6%.
• Annual pay raises based on performance.
• Paid orientation and training.

Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Centers is licensed by the Michigan Department of Human Services, Office of Child and Adult Licensing as a Home for the Aged. Our staff is carefully selected and trained to monitor each resident’s physical and mental health discreetly, observing for signs of pain, confusion, inattention to personal hygiene, missed meals, or changes in routine.

We are an equal opportunity employer and strictly prohibit discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”
— Fred Rogers

Job Posting Date: Sat, 25 Jan 2025 23:08:37 GMT

Apply now!